by Susan Young
Last month The Kingsmill Group opened its new £7m Ness Walk Hotel in Inverness. The new five-star hotel is the latest addition to the Kingsmill portfolio and is situated on the banks of the River Ness in Inverness city centre.
The Group has transformed a former 19th century, Grade B-listed building, formerly home to the Springfield and Maple Court hotels, and created a contemporary building which pays homage to its historic roots with the preservation of its period features. This has been combined with a modern approach to the hotel’s design and architecture, which have created a well-blended mix of the old and the new.
The 45-bedroom luxury hotel also has two prestigious suites and an 80-seater Torrish Restaurant. It also has a private function suite, the Riverbank Room.
Each of the hotel’s bedrooms hase been decorated to reflect the seasonal landscape of the highlands with a flow of soft colours and textiles, while the rooms have been appropriately named to highlight the many trees surrounding the hotel including the Cedar and Laurel. Each bedroom has been thoughtfully designed to enhance space and natural light. Impressive marble, crisp linens, luxurious leathers and warm velvets combine to make the perfect sanctuary to relax and unwind. And, keen to make the most of the natural surroundings, each ground floor room has patio doors leading out to its own private terrace, while floor-to-ceiling windows allow guests to soak up the views on the first and second floors.
The exclusive Wellingtonia and Rowan suites promise five-star luxury. The spacious rooms boast sweeping views out to the grounds and Inverness Castle. Guests can also relax in style, with a private lounge and dining area, a chic marble bathroom with walk-in shower, and each suite has a super king-size bed.
The hotel’s tranquil vibe is extended into the elegant lounge, stylish bar which offers guests an impressive range of whiskies, and private event space. The Riverbank Room features a south-facing glass wall offering stunning views out to the River Ness.
The hotel’s Torrish Restaurant, set in the original drawing room, is a fine dining experience but in relaxed surroundings which includes a cosy fire. It was named after the beautiful salmon fly commonly used when fishing close by River Ness.
Tony Story, CEO of The Kingsmills Group said, “We wanted to create a luxurious escape with Ness Walk, and that’s exactly what we’ve done. It’s a place where guests are instantly transported out of the hustle and bustle of the city and everyday life and can relax and unwind in beautiful surroundings. Just ten minutes from the iconic Loch Ness, the hotel is a gateway to the Highlands, allowing visitors to explore every hill, nook and crag of Scotland’s most spectacular landscape.
“Exceptional hospitality is at the heart of our offering, with every little detail taken care of. From valet parking and personal luggage delivery to a glass of chilled champagne on arrival, it’s our promise to provide an outstanding 5-star experience from the moment our guests arrive.”
The development was supported by £4.5 million of funding from Barclays.